Valentine’s Day & Carnevale: A Celebration of Love, Joy, and Italian Flavor
copyright 2026 Art of Living, Prima Media Inc/Maria Liberrati
February in Italy is a month of vibrant contrasts — the romantic whispers of Valentine’s Day and the exuberant laughter of Carnevale. Both holidays celebrate connection, indulgence, and the pleasures of life, making them perfect themes for your kitchen and your heart.
The Romance of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day in Italy is a celebration of amore. From Verona’s homage to Romeo and Juliet to candlelit dinners in cozy trattorias, Italians embrace romance with elegance and passion. It’s a time to slow down, savor a meal, and express love through thoughtful gestures — often involving food.
The Joy of Carnevale
Carnevale, on the other hand, is a riot of color and joy. Rooted in ancient traditions, it’s a time of masks, music, and merrymaking before the solemnity of Lent. Cities like Venice come alive with elaborate costumes and parades, while kitchens fill with sweet treats and festive dishes.
A Recipe That Bridges Both: Chocolate Ricotta Tart (Crostata di Ricotta e Cioccolato)
This luscious tart is perfect for both occasions — romantic enough for Valentine’s Day, playful enough for Carnevale.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Pinch of salt
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups fresh ricotta cheese
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ cup dark chocolate, chopped or chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Add butter and rub into flour until crumbly.
- Add egg and mix until dough forms. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough and press into a tart pan. Prick base with a fork.
- In another bowl, mix ricotta, sugar, egg, vanilla, and chocolate.
- Pour filling into crust and smooth top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Why It Works
- Ricotta adds creamy richness, a staple of Italian desserts.
- Chocolate brings indulgence and romance.
- Lemon zest adds brightness, echoing the festive spirit of Carnevale.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re celebrating with a loved one or dancing in a Carnevale parade, this season invites us to embrace joy, flavor, and tradition. Let your kitchen be the heart of the celebration.
Buon San Valentino e Buon Carnevale!
Get more recipes for Valentine’s Day, Carnevale and more Holidays in the gourmand World Award Winning Book- The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays and Special Occasions- second edition
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